This paper presents math-based models of automotive torque converters in the MapleSim1 modeling environment, which has a multi-domain nature. The created models can be easily connected to models of other vehicle components from different domains (mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic) developed in the same package.
The proposed model is a math-based dynamic model of a torque converter, based on the paper by Hrovat and Tobler, which includes both transient and steady state behavior of the torque converter. The dynamic model of a torque converter can be used as an essential element to investigate vehicle longitudinal dynamics, drive quality, emission, and fuel consumption during gear shifting and throttle stepping. A sensitivity analysis is used to evaluate the effects of the torque converter's parameters, such as radius, blade angles, and inertias, on the model's behavior. In both the modeling and sensitivity analyses, we have exploited the symbolic nature of the equations available through the MapleSim environment.